Tony Ragona

My philosophy as a counselor is to act as an encouraging coach for clients as they navigate their recovery. I help clients feel accepted and understood so I can fully understand the impact their challenges are having on their lives. We will work on thoughts, beliefs, interpersonal skills, and coping skills that get in the way of living a meaningful life. I also work with clients on nervous system regulation so that they feel safer and calmer in the world. In addition, I strive to reinforce overlooked strengths and resilience clients already possess, instead of focusing only on what isn’t working in their lives. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have an MA in Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. In addition, I am a Certified Trauma Professional and have trained with the International Trauma Training Institute. I have presented workshops on trauma and PTSD at Ascension Presence Behavioral Health where I have worked for the past nine years doing assessments and counseling. The clients I’ve worked with have trauma histories, substance abuse, and mood regulation challenges. In addition, I earned a Certificate in Conflict Management Skills in 2001 from DePaul University’s Center for Dispute Resolution. I have given presentations on conflict management to colleges and counseling agencies. I look forward to the privilege of our shared work.